The Hike

Man, was I nervous to go on this hike with my good friends Cori and Micah Balls. But I made a committment to myself and them and went for it. I have the greatest time with them, we had a blast driving up. It was so beautiful when we got there. The hike up was challenging for me. I was sweating like a pig and niether Cori or Micah were even short of breath most of the time. It really made me realize how far I have to go. I didn't end up making it all the way, I think we climbed for 2-21/2 miles out of 3. We hit snow and besides my total exhaustion, I knew I wouldn't have made it very far in the snow. They were so understanding and patient with me. I didn't have to take too many breaks, but I was quite touched by their concern. We did stop at the top of this amazing view and it was absolutely breathtaking. We finished our lunches and chatted a bit and then headed down. Going down is ten times easier for me, but I definitely felt the altitude change in my body and I didn't realize until the very end how worn out I was. And falling 4 times didn't help! :) When we got to the car, I felt sick. It eventually went away after awhile. I was proud of myself for doing it, but also kind of disappointed that it wasn't easier for me. But I hope I get to get out with them at least a couple of more times before the end of the summer. They always motivate me towards my goals.

I woke up feeling good. A bit tired from the lack of sleep due to the pyros in the neighborhood, but I was still able to get to my kickboxing class on time. I could tell that my right leg was a bit sore from one of the falls I had during the hike, but other than that, I was fine. I didn't have enough energy to do more cardio afterwards, but I did do some additional ab work and made sure I stretched really well.

It was a good experience. Now I won't fear hikes no longer!